You've probably heard that physical activity and exercise are good for you. Being physically active on a regular basis is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself.
Studies have shown that exercise provides many health benefits and that older adults can gain a lot by staying physically active. Even moderate exercise and physical activity can improve the health of people who are frail or who have diseases that accompany aging.
Be as active as possible
Being physically active can also help you stay strong and fit enough to keep doing the things you like to do as you get older.
Making exercise and physical activity a regular part of your life can improve your health and help you maintain your independence as you age.
Being inactive can be risky
Some older adults are reluctant to exercise. Some are afraid that exercise will be too hard or that physical activity will harm them. Yet, studies show that 'taking it easy' is risky. For the most part, when older people lose their ability to do things on their own, it doesn't just happen because they've aged. It's usually because they are not active.
According to recent research, inactive people are nearly twice as likely to develop heart disease as those who are more active. Lack of physical activity also can lead to more visits to the doctor, more hospitalisations, and more use of medicines for a variety of illnesses.
Prevent or delay disease
Scientists have found that staying physically active and exercising regularly can help prevent or delay many diseases and disabilities. In some cases, exercise is an effective treatment for many chronic conditions. For example, studies show that people with arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes benefit from regular exercise.
Exercise also helps people with high blood pressure, balance problems, or difficulty walking.
Manage stress and improve mood
Regular, moderate physical activity can help manage stress and improve your mood. And, being active on a regular basis may help reduce feelings of depression.
Studies also suggest that exercise can improve or maintain some aspects of cognitive function, such as your ability to shift quickly between tasks or plan an activity.
Physical activity or exercise?
Some people may wonder what the difference between physical activity and exercise.
Physical activities are activities that get your body moving such as gardening, walking the dog and taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
Exercise is a form of physical activity that is specifically planned, structured, and repetitive such as weight training, tai chi, or an aerobics class.
Including both in your life will provide you with health benefits that can help you feel better and enjoy life more as you age.